Council approves purchase resolution for 5.09‑acre HCA tract at Depot Street for downtown parking and future development

Cookeville — The council on June 5 approved a resolution authorizing the city manager to enter a contract to purchase a 5.09‑acre tract owned by HCA at 39 Depot Street, south Cedar and South Oak avenues. The resolution memorialized the council’s prior decision and was approved unanimously.

Why it matters: The city said the property is intended to provide public parking, green space and opportunities for future downtown economic development. City officials said the purchase secures land that can be used over the long term to support downtown vitality.

Details and public comment City staff identified the parcel as a 5.09‑acre tract located at 39 Depot Street; the council previously authorized the purchase and the resolution before the council memorializes that prior approval. A public commenter asked whether the city intended to retain the property in public ownership, whether it could be used for parking, green space, housing or economic development, and whether the city might later convey it to private developers.

Council and staff response City leaders said the immediate uses include publicly available parking and green space and that the city intends to hire a consultant or planner to develop a master plan for the site. Council members emphasized desire for downtown economic development while keeping public access and green elements.

Action taken The council voted 5‑0 to approve the resolution authorizing the city manager to complete the purchase; staff said the city will proceed with master‑planning and implementation steps.

Ending Staff did not announce a firm timetable for construction or site improvements; the council directed staff to bring design guidance and options to a future meeting after consultant review.